Hawaii's Anti-Gay GOP Lt. Gov James Aiona Opposes Civil Unions

On Friday, the Hawaii Senate voted 18-7 to approve a bill recognizing civil unions. The lopsided vote can override a potential veto and "send[s] a strong message of support to the state House and Gov. Linda Lingle," notes the Honolulu Advertiser.

The Republican Lingle has not indicated if she will sign the bill. But the stridently anti-gay Catholic Republican Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona, who is also a candidate for governor, slammed the vote and hinted toward a voter referendum.

Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona said that the Senate vote was at odds with the people of the state. "Instead of redefining the institution of marriage, legislators should be focused on improving public education and balancing the state budget," Aiona said in a statement. "Like other movements across the country, voters will have the final say on Election Day."

HB 444 now returns to the House which passed a similar measure by a 33-17 vote in February 2009

Aiona headlined last weekend's anti-civil unions rally in Honolulu that attracted thousands. At the rally, Aiona, a former Bush appointee, said that he and his wife Vivian "may have struggled at times" during their marriage but: "We do know one thing. We know that marriage is about a man and a woman. That is true."

Not "true" everywhere, Duke. A half a dozen states, our nation's capital, Canada, Portugal ...

You May Want to Read ...
Hawaii Senate Passes Civil Unions
Hawaii Senate Committee Deadlocked on Civil Unions Bill
Hawaii House Passes Civil Unions Bill

Comments

[Jim]

Duke Aiona is trying to build a coalition of conservative Christians—the same people who came out to the state capitol the last two years in matching T-shirts to demonstrate against gay people—in order to propel himself into the governor’s seat.

One thing I notice here in Hawaii. The ordinary moderate-to-liberal resident just dismisses this man as “a dim bulb” or as a clown, not to be taken seriously. But, like similar men across the country, he is a real danger. We should not be dismissing these people. I see the influence and malice of the evangelicals and conservatives growing every day.

If Aiona becomes the next governor, Hawaii had better change its name from the Aloha State, cuz there’ll be no pretending anymore.

[GBM and GOP]

Rod, is there any particular reason why you never miss any opportunity to point out that some politician is a Republican? You could very well make your point without their party identification? Sounds biased imho. Not every black or brown gay person is a Democrat!

[Jim]

@ GBM and GOP (aka “How many ways can I hate myself?”):

Rod identifies the party of every politician he talks about, even including Joe Lieberman (I – Aetna, Prudential).

And another thing: While it’s understandable that “not every black or brown gay person is a Democrat,” why any would be a Republican is beyond any explanation that does not require psychiatry.

[Da' Realist One]

Not that Rod needs defending, but from what I have read, Rod is very well at recognizing the correct title, position, or affilliation of ANY person that he writes about - not just Republicans.
Maybe you have not seen any of the articles he wrote in regards to Democratic leaders who stated they were in favor of equality, but when it came down to the wire betrayed the community with their vote for inequality?

What I see here is simply accurate reporting. Republican is his party affilliation so what's wrong with acknowledging that?

Republican, Democrat, Independent, Libertarian, Green Party, etc., I have seen accurate reporting in all instances when it came to public and/or political figures and their actions and stances towards equal rights for the GLBT community.

Perhaps you're feeling a bit of embarrassment that your party CONSISTENTLY shows their true colors when it comes to their hatred towards other fellow Americans?

[Jim]

Da’ Realist one asked: “Perhaps you’re feeling a bit of embarrassment that your party CONSISTENTLY shows their true colors when it comes to their hatred towards other fellow Americans?”

Da’ One, I doubt anyone who calls themselves “GBM and GOP” is capable of embarrassment about any moral matter. Only about what model of BMW he drives.

[Faison]

>>>While it’s understandable that “not every black or brown gay person is a Democrat,” why any would be a Republican is beyond any explanation that does not require psychiatry.

Self hating much Miss GBM and GOP?
Notice the "G" in gay goes before the "B" in black.

Do you just happen to be a black man who is gay? Or do you happen to be a gay man who is black? Do tell!

And why the drivel about party identification? Negro please..we might not agree with all of his points, but Rod is the fierceness when it comes to accuracy. Every professional title, party identification and spelling of names. And the hoot is to see someone labeled as a "Democrat" or "I-Prudenntial."

Just like we'd label you Gay "Black" Man and GOP, right? Oh and how is your party's racism and anti-equality stand treating you? Ooohh I bet you are a "multi issue voter" and vote on "more than gay rights"? Do tell!

[GBM and GOP]

@ Faison and Jim...

Call me as many names as you want, it doesn't stop me from believeing we need two parties. And Democrats are not entitled to my vote. My family owns a business and we think the GOP platform is more business friendly. Sue us for being independent and not on the Democratic plantation.

And yes I have seen a few articles here going after Democrats. But too much of Rod's venom is directed toward Republicans.When will you criticize Democrats Rod? WHEN?!

Faison and Realist, brothas you need a reality check and need to STFU.
"Too much of Rod's venom is directed toward Republicans" Try too much of the GOP's venom is directed at gays and lesbians. And how does a black gay man boast that he is a member of the racist and anti-gay GOP? Never mind. Look up "ENDA" or "Don't Ask Don't Tell" and keep telling yourself I never criticize Democrats. smh -RM

[D. Askew]

...Sorry but there is nothing "self hating" about me. Just because I proudly identify myself as black and gay...I proudly identify myself as a conservative...

Sounds self hating to me!

[Baltimore Femme]

GBM GOP is a masochist and a needy power bottom. Trust and believe children!

[Chitown Kev]

@GBM GOP

uh, sweetie, you self-identify as "GBM GOP" therefore you are NOT a political independent by your own definition.

[Mad Professah]

GBM GOP?

All I can do is shake my head in shame.